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Tuesday, September 17, 2013

You Won't Believe What I did at the ACFW Conference!

I spent fifteen minutes talking with agent Mary Sue Seymour
as we waited for the doors to open for the Gala. I tried to steal the chair
from Chip MacGregor’s appointment area the first day because I was tired of
standing. He said no. I chatted with Emily Rodmell about her helpful twitter
posts. I exchanged greetings with Robin Jones Gunn as we waited for the
elevator. I was scolded by Lena Nelson Dooley for not asking to be interviewed
on her blog. I made a dozen new writer friends. I ate meals with authors and
writers from all over the world. I met two young people ages fifteen and
sixteen who were there to learn how to improve their writing. I sat with, and
cheered on a Genesis award winner (Hi Suzanne). I raised my
voice in praise and song with 500 other believers every morning. I sat at the
feet of gifted teachers who helped me understand the middle of a book, the dangers
of e-pub contracts, and ways to market my book most effectively. I encouraged
several writers who were wondering if it would ever happen for them, and shared
my story of the bad conference that turned out so well. I was encouraged by
those a few steps higher on the ladder that me.

I laughed.
I cried. I was lifted up by the keynote speaker who reminded us what our gifts
and our journeys are all about. I was served by hotel staff that always smiled,
always helped, and worked overtime to make sure our stay was perfection.

I collected
business cards from scores of writers with varied skills and talents that I can
contact when I need research information. I spent time with Love Inspired
authors and editors who have my best interests at heart. I stepped out of my
comfort zone and looked to assist first timers and not worry about me.

I was
blessed beyond words.

And you say you can’t afford to go to conference? You can’t
afford NOT to.

*(I understand the financial burden of conference, but
please remember that there are scholarships available to help. Attendees are
always looking for roommates to share the cost. Try and attend a conference
near you to cut costs. If you are serious about your writing career you need to
step out of your comfort zone and step into the publishing arena. Editors,
agents, mentors and ACFW staff are all devoted to helping you learn and grow
and work to put you in touch with people who can help. Meeting editors and
agents in person can make all the difference. I met my agent when she sat down
next to me at dinner. That wouldn’t have happened if I’d stayed home. So pray
about it, plan for it and I hope to meet you next year in St Louis.)